Is the colour of my urine related to anti TB drugs?
Dr Chandra M Gulhati
Editor, MIMS,
New Delhi
Editor, MIMS,
New Delhi
Q: I was recently diagnosed with TB of the lymph nodes and now I am taking Fixcom-4, which is a combination Rifampicin, Isoniazid, Pyrazinamide and Ethambutol. In the first week it turned my urine to yellow from yellowish-orange but in second week of taking the drug my urine is clear. I am just worried if taking this drug affects my kidney function. Although I do drink a lot of water whenever I take the medication and I don’t have difficulty urinating. Is my reaction to the drug normal?
A:The rifampicin ingredient of Fixcom-4 can stain body secretions such as urine temporarily. There is no cause for worry. You must complete the anti-TB course.